All those hummingbirds that remained behind heavily rely on bird feeders to get them through the winter. It could also be that they were sick, weak or injured at the time when other hummingbirds were starting their migration. This could be caused by a combination of temperate climate (or unusual mild winters) and access to food (which could be winter blooming flowers or bird feeders). Sometimes hummingbirds that typically migrate south to winter in the warmer tropics stay put in their northern breeding range. There are some that feel that keeping bird feeders up in the fall will prevent hummingbirds from migrating - however, the urge to travel long distances to and from their breeding territories is brought on by hormonal changes triggered by changing environmental conditions, such as shorter or longer days, environmental temperatures, as well as availability of food. These feeders allow people to observe and enjoy them up close, while providing the hummers with a reliable source of energy that is particularly needed outside the flowering seasons, when flower blossoms are not readily available. Hummingbirds readily accept sugar-water from bird feeders. Deciding to Putting Up Hummingbird Feeders
Also visit the “ Attracting Hummingbirds” webpage for more information. Listing of plants hummingbirds are fond of. In spring, fall (unless unusually warm) and winter, replace sugar water at least once a weeįor those who do not have the time or commitment to ensure that, it would be a better choice for them to plant favorite feeding flowers in their garden.In the summer if the temperatures are below 85 degrees every 2- 3 days.Daily if the temperature rises above 85 degrees.Replace old nectar with fresh sugar water every week in spring and fall, every two to three days as it warms up, How often do I have to change the sugar-water: Rinse thoroughly before adding fresh sugar-water. If you see spots of mold, scrub with a brush and rinse the feeder with a 5% dilute bleach-water solution. Even more frequently in hot / humid climates. Sugar water will grow bacteria and mold quite quickly and it is important that at the very least, the feeders need to be taken down and SANITIZED and fresh sugar water added. Poorly maintained hummingbird feeders and contaminated sugar water causes disease and death. Putting up hummingbird feeders comes with the heavy responsibility of offering them fresh, healthy food and safe, clean feeders.